Deputy Mayor for Economic Development Bob Bowman to Retire June 26, 2014

City of Akron Press Release
From the desk of stephanie york
Published: 06-18-2014

Akron, Ohio (June 18, 2014) – In April, Akron Mayor Don Plusquellic announced today that veteran cabinet member Bob Bowman was going to retire by year’s end due to the new OPERS changes that kick in this year. Due to a quick sale of his house in Akron, Bowman has recently announced that his retirement will be effective at the end of June. Bowman and his wife are moving to Florida to be closer to family.

Bowman began his career at the City of Akron nearly 10 years ago, after serving as Senior Vice President of Economic Development for the Greater Akron Chamber, previously the Akron Regional Development Board. He held that position for 16 years.

Veteran Deputy Planning Director for Economic Development Sam DeShazior will step seamlessly into the position of Deputy Mayor for Economic Development. DeShazior, who also came to Akron via the Greater Akron Chamber, has worked side-by-side with Bowman for the past 26 years.

Transitioning for the past few months into the position of Deputy Planning Director for Economic Development is Economic Development Manager Adele Roth.

“We have been preparing for this since the moment Bob revealed his plans early this year,” said Mayor Plusquellic. “Bob has really built up our Economic Development Department and has brought many new businesses and prospects to Akron. He has not only been a valuable member of my cabinet but he has also become a good friend, and I will miss him. Despite my reluctance to let him go, I am happy for Bob and wish him well in retirement.”